Mosaics have been around for thousands of years, dating back to around 2000 BC. Large mosaics are made by assembling small tiles or pieces of material to form a picture. The cost of mosaics can range widely, from $50 for a small piece to over $1000 for a large, professionally made mosaic. To finish a mosaic, the tiles are grouted together using a process that involves mixing grout, applying it between the tiles, smoothing it, and cleaning to reveal the final piece.
2. There were questions. (Ha!) - When did the art of mosaics originate? - How are the very large mosaics made? - How much would a mosaic sell for? - How do you get the grouting stuff around all of the pieces like that?
3. There are many different objects used in mosaics. ← True There aren't many different objects used in mosaics. -> False FACT!
7. How Do YOU Grout Mosaics? Step One Mix up a small amount of grout, enough for a trivet or a tray, by placing 3 inches of grout powder in a 2.5 gallon bucket. Add water little by little and stir with a large paint stick. Adjust grout powder and water and stir until the mixture resembles the proper peanut butter consistency. A good way to test it is to scoop a blob of the mixed grout onto a stick and turn it over; if it drips off, add a little powder; if it crumbles, add a little water. When the grout sticks right onto the stick, you're ready to grout! Step Two Get the workspace ready, preferably outside. If inside, line the workspace and the floor underneath you with newspaper to facilitate easy clean-up. Set out the project, grout float, a grout sponge and a bucket filled halfway with water. Put on some thin disposable latex gloves. Step Three Check the dried mosaic project for any loose tiles. If you find one, simply scrape of the glue from both sides and re-glue. Step Four Scoop some grout using the float or a gloved hand onto the center of the project. Raise one side of the float to create an angle that allows you to pull the float gently over the tiles, shoving the grout in between the spaces. Pull the float toward yourself and repeat until all the spaces (joints) are filled with grout, including any exposed edges. As you go, scrape off the excess grout from the tiles using your float the same way. Floats are only used on projects with flat, even tile surfaces. If yours is bumpy or curved with plates and objects, use your gloved hand as a float! Step Five View the finished grout from all angles before you decide you are done. Then, let the grout set for about 5 minutes. Check for readiness by rubbing one clean palm across the top of your project. If grout smears, it is not ready. If the grout powders or sands up, then it is set and ready to sponge off. Step Six Sponge the project to smooth out the grout and clean off any excess. Dip the sponge in water, squeeze thoroughly and pass firmly over one portion of the project, only once. Turn the sponge over to a clean side and wipe another portion of the project. Repeat, always using a clean side of the sponge, until you have wiped the entire project once. All that is left should be a little grout color haze on the project. Let dry 5 more minutes. Step Seven Enjoy the best part. Wipe off the haze using a clean, dry, soft cloth to reveal the true beauty and shine of the mosaic.
